Sulfur Dioxide

National Trends in Sulfur Dioxide Levels

Using a nationwide network of monitoring sites, EPA has developed ambient air quality trends for sulfur dioxide (SO2). Trends starting in 1980, 1990, and 2000 are shown here. Under the Clean Air Act, EPA sets and reviews national air quality standards for SO2. Air quality monitors measure concentrations of SO2 throughout the country. EPA, state, tribal and local agencies use that data to ensure that SO2 in the air is at levels that protect public health and the environment. Nationally, average SO2 concentrations have decreased substantially over the years. For information on SO2 standards, sources, health effects, and programs to reduce SO2, please see www.epa.gov/airquality/sulfurdioxide/.

Local Trends in Sulfur Dioxide Levels

Air quality trends can vary from one area to another. Local trends can be viewed at individual monitoring locations in the map below or in this KML file(KML, 478 KB) using Google Earth or another KML browser.

Sulfur dioxide monitors that meet mimimum trends completeness criteria Sulfur dioxide monitors that have some data during the trend period but do not meet the mimimum trends completeness criteria